Orthopedic conditions including hip and elbow dysplasia cause widespread suffering in dogs, and mandatory pre-breeding screening is essential for reducing incidence.
Hip and elbow dysplasia cause chronic pain and reduced mobility that profoundly affects dog welfare throughout life. These conditions are highly heritable — breeding decisions have enormous impact on future generations. Schemes requiring pre-breeding radiographic screening and using only dogs below breed mean scores prevent the transmission of high-scoring hips and elbows to offspring. However, scheme participation is voluntary in most countries, leaving responsible breeders at a market disadvantage against those who skip screening. Mandatory screening for breeds known to be at high risk is an important welfare policy goal. Consumers who demand health-tested puppies create market incentive for screening.